Mitchells Plain CPF executive suspension prompts calls for unity in policing efforts

The National Community Police Board and the Western Cape Provincial Police Board said they are unable to respond to the suspension of the Executive Committee of the Mitchells Plain Community Police Forum.

The Mitchells Plain CPF Executive announced that it was suspended last week without reasons made public as to what had transpired. It said a local AGM has been set which will determine the outcome.

Its suspension has received reactions from civil organisations who called for there to be no division and for bodies and authorities to continue to work closely with the police.

In a public note, the CPF said: “Dear CPF Member, we hereby wish to inform you that on this date, February 10 2026, we as the CPF Executive Committee have been effectively suspended by the CPF District Board.

“Please note that the planned AGM for tonight has been postponed until further notice. We will keep you informed about the pending hearing and its outcome.”

In response to the suspension, Fransina Lukas, chairperson of the National Community Police Forum Consultative Forum and the Western Cape Provincial Community Police Board CPF Board, told Cape Argus they could not respond at this stage as they played a role going forward with decision-making.

“We are not going to provide comment on the issue because, as the provincial board executive, we are the appealing authority should the Mitchells Plain CPF wish to appeal the decision; we are unable to comment,” she cited.

Cape Argus approached the CPF for a response but did not receive feedback as yet.

Civil organisation Fight Against Crime SA (FACSA) called for stability within the structure.

“FACSA notes the suspension of the Mitchells Plain CPF Executive as announced by the Sub-District Community Police Board,” it said.

“We will not engage in speculation or personalities. What matters now is stability, continuity, and the uninterrupted functioning of policing in Mitchells Plain.

“Community safety cannot become collateral damage in governance disputes. The priority must remain clear: supporting SAPS operations on the ground and ensuring leadership stability during this period.

“FACSA continues to support operational policing efforts in Mitchells Plain and any leadership that prioritises community safety, accountability, and measurable results.

“We urge all stakeholders to allow the formal process to unfold without division, grandstanding, or political manoeuvring.

“The community deserves safety, not infighting.”